Malaga is known for its beaches, good weather, historical legacy, popular fair, flamenco, and delicious dishes. This city is located on the Costa del Sol, where the sun shines almost 365 days a year, making it a perfect place for a vacation or a few days of disconnection. If you’re wondering what to do in Malaga, it offers multiple tourist attractions, activities, and interesting shows, which we reveal below.
Malaga, Visit its Historical Heritage
Malaga is one of the oldest cities on the European continent. Its origin dates back to the 8th century BC, when it was founded by the Phoenicians. Later it would become part of the Roman Empire and an Andalusian medina, which became the capital of the kingdom on four occasions. Furthermore, it was the birthplace of the emblematic artist and painter Pablo Picasso. For all these reasons, this city is an amalgamation of cultures worth visiting. These are some of the architectural pieces and places you have to see in Malaga:
Alcazaba
The Alcazaba of Malaga – from the Arabic qasaba meaning “citadel” – is a palatial fortification from the Muslim era, which was built on a previous Phoenician-Punic fortification. Built on the slopes of Mount Gibralfaro, it is considered one of the most beautiful alcazabas and declared a Historical Monument of Spain.
Malaga Cathedral
Another place you can’t miss visiting in Malaga is its cathedral, the Holy Cathedral Basilica of the Incarnation, considered one of the most valuable Renaissance jewels in Andalusia. The Catholic Monarchs Isabella and Ferdinand ordered the construction of this Christian temple days after conquering the city in 1487.
Gibralfaro Castle
Gibralfaro Castle is a fortification located on “Mount Faro”, also known as Gibralfaro. It is situated in an ancient Phoenician enclosure. But it was Abderramán III – the last emir and first caliph of Córdoba – who transformed the ancient ruins into a fortress.
Picasso Museum
Pablo Picasso’s museum is located in a restored 16th-century palace and houses more than 200 works, despite the fact that the Malaga-born painter and sculptor spent much of his life in France. If you’re an art lover, you can’t leave Malaga without a visit to this gallery.
Central Market of Atarazanas
The municipal food market is a 19th-century architectural work worth getting lost in for a while, as you discover the great gastronomic offer and its bars. One of the peculiarities of the market is that it was built right where there were previously Nasrid shipyards from the 14th century, of which only the old Andalusian-style door remains. The rest of the building was constructed between 1876 and 1879 by the architect Joaquín de Rucoba.
Enjoy Flamenco with the Best Shows
If you come to Andalusia, you can’t leave without experiencing the magic of flamenco. Malaga is culture and flamenco, and this city offers you the best shows and artists when night falls. Enjoy the best dance, Spanish guitar, and singing at Flamenco Alegría, a space where you can feel flamenco while dining, or simply having a drink.
Try Malaga’s Gastronomy
Those who come to Malaga have to try its famous sweet wine and popular espetos. Espetos are nothing more than sardines, but grilled with firewood on the beach sand. You can find this tasty Malaga dish in many restaurants.
Visit the Maritime Port and Beaches
If we’re asked what to see in Malaga, it’s clear that a visit to the port and its beaches is a must. In the Maritime Port, you’ll find countless bars and restaurants where you can watch the sunset or enjoy a good meal. And if it’s summer, take advantage of a refreshing swim in its numerous gray sand beaches. The most famous are: Peñón del Cuervo Beach, El Palo Beach, Baños del Carmen Beach-Spa, La Caleta Beach, or Pedregalejo Beach.
The Malaga Fair
The Malaga Fair, also known as the August fair, is joy and merriment. Thousands of tourists come every year to this city bathed by the Mediterranean to enjoy its festivities. It’s a celebration that has taken place since ancient times and commemorates the entry of the Catholic Monarchs into the city on August 19, 1487. During the day, celebrations take place in the historic center, where the tradition is to go from bar to bar drinking wine. If you decide to go out at night, the party continues in the municipal fairgrounds, where Malagueños dance in their mythical booths surrounded by family and friends.
We hope you’ve enjoyed this selection of places and activities to do and see in Malaga. None of them are a waste! That’s why we have no doubt that the Andalusian city will make you fall in love.
